VE TEST SESSIONS - GETTING YOUR LICENSE

Several of our LCARC hams are Volunteer Examiners and we assist the Porter County ARC conducting regular VE Test Sessions in nearby Valparaiso on the 2nd Saturday of (almost) every month. Testing begins at 9:00am (Central Time) at the Valparaiso Library located at 103 Jefferson Street. Pre-registration is not required and exams are available for all license classes. Check the ARRL Exam Locator and enter in Valparaiso Zip Code 46383 to confirm upcoming dates. Click the Learn More link for contact information if you have further questions.

Things you need to have in order to test are a valid photo ID (usually driver's license or school ID), exam fee, and your Social Security Number (SSN) or FCC Registration Number (FRN). If you are seeking an upgrade, please bring a copy of your current license that we can keep. If you are using a CSCE for exam credit, please bring both the original and a copy that we can keep (original will be returned to you). You are encouraged to bring your own pens, pencils, and simple scientific calculator with memories cleared (not fancy graphing calculator), or we can provide these items also.

About the Social Security Number: The FCC requires that all new license applicants provide their SSN. When you are issued a license, you then receive a FRN. Sometimes people already have an FRN if they have a Marine Radio Operator's Permit (MROP), a General Mobile Radio Service (GMRS) license, a business radio license, etc. The FCC prefers that you use your FRN on the application for an amateur radio license if you have one. Also, if you are sensitive about providing your SSN to our testing team, you can request a FRN before you come to test with us. More information can be found here. All of the paperwork that contains your SSN or FRN is forwarded to the ARRL to process your license application. The testing team does not keep a copy of those documents.